Policy Orbit: Convergence in Grand Strategies

Conducting foreign policy in an evolving geopolitical environment that is shaped by global, structural transformations requires forward-looking, strategic thinking. To navigate these transnational changes and capitalise on emerging opportunities, states need a compass. As an organising principle for foreign policy, Grand Strategies serve this purpose. They align resources, instruments, and actions, considering the potential trajectories of global transformations. This brief assesses how Grand Strategies reflect a global trend, such as the emergence of digital technologies, and use transnational partnerships for the achievement of national objectives. It conducts the analysis in the context of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) cooperation between the UAE and France, two leading AI powers in their regions, aiming to elevate and consolidate their positions globally. Considering the complementarity and convergence of these countries’ Grand Strategies in AI, this brief argues that a bilateral sectoral partnership, embedded in a broader Franco-Emirati cooperation framework, can catalyse the achievement of their goals.

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